Slough: What does it mean and how can it be managed

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the formation of slough on the wound bed. The impact slough has on wound healing will also be explored. There are several wound cleansing products which can be used for the safe removal of slough, and several different methods of debridement – including autolytic, conservative sharp, surgical, ultrasonic, hydrosurgical and mechanical – as well as several therapies which can be used, including osmotic, biological, enzymatic dressings and monofilament fibre pads. These various methods will be described.